Obscenely high and unsustainable policing costs. OPP bills are destroying communities its officers are supposed to protect. Apparent self-interest is cloaked in the guise of public safety needs. Where is the political outrage while OPP costs continue to climb? Who is going to bring policing costs in this province under control?

LETTER – I am writing this letter in the hope that it may persuade Midland council to reconsider sourcing out our police service to the OPP.

There is already a history of other municipalities changing over to the OPP. On paper, it shows it will save money, but down the road the costs incurred by having the OPP patrolling the streets have increased.

Having our own police service means familiarity. Not only do residents know the officers, the officers know the townspeople and the area. OPP officers would not be dedicated to patrolling our town streets, but would be responsible for a wider territory outside of town limits, which translates into longer response times.

Having a police force that is highly visible is a great deterrent where crime is concerned, especially when they live in the same town. And by doing so they also help contribute to the town’s economy.

People of Midland should voice their opinions to council in support of the Midland Police Service. Attending relevant meetings and starting a petition are great ways to become involved and show support for our boys in blue.

Sitting back and not voicing your opinion is like not voting at election time. We may end up with something we don’t want.